10 Dog Breeds That Can Weather the Cold

Famous for his sledding prowess, the Siberian Husky wears a thick double coat that makes him well-suited for snow and harsh weather. If the Siberian could have his way, his owner would love snow just as much as he does. The breed tends to thrive at winter dog sports, but he’ll usually be happy to try other sports, too. Either way, he needs plenty of exercise all year round.

With fur that’s as soft and white as snow, the American Eskimo is typically an adaptable and affectionate breed who enjoys an outdoor adventure. Just don’t fall for his hypnotizing dark eyes and smiling face or you could find yourself succumbing to his every desire.

Thanks to her thick mop of dreadlocks, the Komondor can usually withstand weather extremes. As you might expect, maintaining her unique coat can be a challenge. Her cords require daily grooming and, like mops, can attract a lot of dirt.

Mushers in Canada and Alaska created the Alaskan Malamute to haul logs, deliver supplies to remote locations and compete in sled dog races. Though Alaskan Huskies are primarily working dogs, they can still be affectionate and loving companions.

Believed to have come to Iceland on the longboats of early Viking settlers, the Icelandic Sheepdog is a Nordic breed who has pricked ears, a curled tail and a thick double coat. The Icie is generally fond of children and tends to get along with other cats and dogs. But he is a barker and will likely alert you to everything he sees and hears.

Thought to be an ancient breed that herded reindeer in the northernmost reaches of the world, the Samoyed is generally a fun-loving and energetic breed who sports a beautiful white coat and a friendly smile. If you enjoy winter sports like snowshoeing, sledding or skijoring, this could be the dog for you. But he’s not limited to cold-weather activities; the breed also excels in agility or herding.

Alpine herdsmen in the snowy city of Bern in Switzerland developed the Bernese Mountain Dog as a farm dog. Her signature tricolor coat is thick, wavy and, as you might expect, sheds heavily. Generally calm and patient, this gentle giant can be a great pet for families with older children. Plus, she typically has the temperament for therapy dog work.

Bred to guard flocks from bears and wolves in the Pyrenees Mountains of France, the Great Pyrenees can usually handle cold climates and temperatures. His thick, white coat helps keep him warm (and makes him an excellent snuggle buddy).

The largest of the Arctic sled dogs, the Alaskan Malamute is a big, powerful breed designed to pull sleds in cold, harsh terrain. But with his sledding heritage come a few things to keep in mind: He’s a world-class leash-puller, can easily clear fences and is an expert digger. Keep these undesirable behaviors in check with plenty of exercise, consistent training and early socialization.

Though the Saint Bernard never actually wore a brandy keg around his neck the way paintings often portray her, it is true that the breed rescued stranded travelers in the snowy and treacherous Swiss Alps. This is generally a calm and patient dog who needs moderate exercise and can be a great choice for families with kids.